Lot 289
Seven Bedouin Amulets in Shape of Salamanders and Frogs
Seven Bedouin amulets in the shape of salamanders and frogs. Palestine-Syria, [early 20th century].
Silver, cast.
Thanks to its reputation for producing numerous offspring, for thousands of years, going back to ancient Egypt, the image of the frog has served as a symbol of fertility and life. Amulets such as these were worn by women in hopes of experiencing an easy birth, and by men who aspired to be reborn in the afterlife (similar beliefs were associated with the salamander).
1-3. Three frog-shaped amulet pendants. Three chains with coins or ornaments are suspended from each pendant. Approx. 2X8 to 2X10 cm. (including chains).
4-5. Two pendants in the form of salamanders. [Jaba', Jenin Region]. Additional pendants attached to each of these two pendants; one has two frog-shaped pendants, while the other has one frog-shaped and one flower-shaped pendant. 3.5X4.5; 3.5X5.5 cm.
6. Two small frog-shaped pendants, connected to each other by rings. 4.5X1.5 cm.
7. Single frog-shaped pendant. 3.5X2 cm.
Reference: The Arts and Crafts of Syria: Collection Antoine Touma and Linden-Museum Stuttgart, p. 102.
